We all know that dog's eternal foe is the postman. How dare this stranger come onto our territory? A few sharp barks at the door usually sends them away. Job done. Property protected.

But how do dogs feel about the other man in red, who appears around Christmas time, and has a most unusual way of breaking into the house. Do dogs bark at Santa Claus?

I hope not, because all Santa wants to do is give them a doggy treat. All the same, perhaps there is a safer way than coming down the Chimney. Yes, indeed there is. On the 8th December at 11am, Santa Claus - a whole mass of them in fact - will be at Victoria Park. He'll be leaving his reindeer behind and is getting ready to burn off those mince pie in the great Santa Run, which is raising money for Dog's Trust.

Do you think you have what it takes to be Santa for a day? Anyone eight or over can sign up, so you don't have to be a big, burly, old man to take part. The only requirement is that you be jolly, and pay £22 towards organisation costs. It is also asked that children under sixteen raise a minimum of £30 in sponsorship, and adults a minimum of £70.

Red Santa suits are freely provided at the event, and once it is over, you get to keep the suit. You can choose to run either five or ten kilometres, and everyone who participates will get a medal.